Dubai and New York buck the trend as families lock in-last-minute February half-term getaways

Sharm el-Sheikh named most popular half-term holiday destination, followed closely by Dubai and New York

42% of all half-term holidays booked in January alone

New booking data from Thomas Cook reveals that while winter sun remains the traditional favourite for February half-term holidays in 2026, long-haul city breaks have emerged as the season’s breakout stars. Dubai and New York have surged in popularity, ranking among the top three destinations for UK families travelling during the upcoming school break. 

The findings, which are based on Thomas Cook booking data compiled over the last 12 months, track family bookings for departures between Saturday 14 February 2026 and Sunday 22 February 2026.

The analysis shows Sharm el-Sheikh to be the most popular destination overall for February half-term family travel, with Dubai and New York securing second and third place respectively. Both destinations have climbed the rankings to overtake traditional winter sun favourites such as Hurghada and Marrakech, underlining a shift in how families are choosing to spend the school break.

Top February half-term destinations for families (by bookings):

1. Sharm el-Sheikh
2. Dubai
3. New York
4. Hurghada
5. Marrakech

 

Last-minute bookings continue to prove popular too, with 42% of February half-term holidays booked in January 2026 alone, suggesting that holidaymakers are increasingly comfortable securing trips closer to departure. 

Jaime Thompson, Head of Inventory and Trading at Thomas Cook, said:

“While winter sun remains a firm favourite for February half term, the strong performance of destinations like Dubai and New York shows families are increasingly using the break for bigger, experience-led trips. Many are also booking closer to departure, taking advantage of flexible options and last-minute deals, which can deliver even better value.”

Customers booking with Thomas Cook can choose from over 20,000 hotels across 71 destinations throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, and enjoy flexible travel options with more than 190 airline partners. All package holidays are ATOL protected, giving customers peace of mind and enhanced financial security, as well as the reassurance of ABTA's Code of Conduct.